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Boro boss demands focus
Middlesbrough, 11:52, January 2, 2009 ,
Gareth Southgate has warned Boro they must treat non-league Barrow with respect as he prepares to ring the changes for the FA Cup tie.
Southgate's side are overwhelming favourites to progress to the fourth round by beating the minnows at the Riverside Stadium on Saturday but the Boro boss is keen to stress to his players not to take their opponents, backed by a 7,000-strong following, lightly.
Southgate is expected to make a raft of changes for the game with several squad players handed run-outs but he has called for the same level of performance that they showed at Manchester United in the league on Monday.
"We showed resilience and a lot of character at Manchester United," he said. "We have regained our pride, but we have also returned to the level of performance of which we know we are capable.
"It's important now that we take a step forward rather than a step back. We have proved we are capable of responding. We have to produce another high-level performance against Barrow and continue to build."
He added: "We know that they are bringing a lot of fans who will help to create a fantastic atmosphere and help lift their players.
"We hope our fans will get behind us in the same way and make it a day to remember for Middlesbrough.
"We want to enjoy another cup run this season. It can have a spin off in the league but there are no easy opponents in the cup and that's why every game must be treated in the same way."
Brad Jones is poised to replace first-choice keeper Ross Turnbull while Dutch winger Marvin Emnes and full-back Matthew Bates should also start.
Both Mido (groin) and Adam Johnson (hamstring) are doubtful for the third round tie.